A trip to Ireland aboard a freighter takes longer than a cruise to the Emerald Isle, but traveling on a cargo ship has its advantages. People who dislike mingling with crowds, prefer a quieter environment or want to save money may find a cargo trip enjoyable. You will find less amenities aboard a cargo ship but many shipping companies have comfortable quarters for passengers. Make the most of your cargo trip by taking responsibility for your own entertainment and itinerary. Depending on how many ports the ship must stop at, a trip to Ireland can be quite lengthy.

Step 1

Enroll in a traveler's health insurance plan. A regular insurance plan may not cover you internationally.

Step 2

Contact freighter travel agencies like Maris Freighter Club (freightercruises.com) or Sea Travel Limited (seatravelltd.com). Inquire about traveling by cargo ship to Ireland. Provide the representative with information like your closest port and proposed departure dates. Allow the representative time to research the best price for you.

Step 3

Call the local port authority and ask which freight lines regularly use the local port. Ask about trips that end in large Irish ports like Dublin or Cork. Small ships also travel to Ireland's Arklow port. Write down the cargo companies' names and phone numbers. Call the companies to ask them if they travel to Ireland. This is good information to have if you want to compare rates with the travel agent's quotes.

Step 4

Book your passage to Ireland with the shipping company or the travel agent. Write down the confirmation information, departure times, estimated arrival date and the name of the booking agent. Ask for a confirmation email that includes instructions on how to prepare for your trip.

Step 5

Verify that your passport is in order, not expired and with no tears or rips. Traveling by cargo ship is like traveling by plane; you must show proper identification before you enter Ireland.

Step 6

Prepare to entertain yourself by packing DVDs, magazines and books. Unlike a cruise ship, you cannot roam the ship for entertainment. If you've never traveled to Ireland, read books about Irish history and the current culture. You will spend much of your time in your cabin or confined to the officers' areas.

Step 7

Stash your favorite snacks in your luggage. Meals are included in your fare but your choices will be limited. Having some extra choices may make the trip more enjoyable.

Tip

Save more money by traveling during the off-season, late fall to early spring.

Resources

About the Author

Mimi Bullock's writing reflects her love of traveling the back roads of small towns and sampling the local cuisine. As a regular feature writer for "Southern Hospitality Traveler" and journalist for "Beachin' Magazine," she gets to experience the rich heritage of the southern culture. She is also a licensed cosmetologist who has her own skin care line.